Managing editor & host, New York Now
WMHT, Albany, N.Y.
Age: 28
In three words: “Perceptive, dedicated, mission-driven”
What colleagues say: Shantel joined WMHT in August 2023 as a multimedia journalist for our weekly state reporting program New York Now. It is a demanding job and she jumped in with perseverance, ambition and an incredible work ethic.
Within six months, the show’s managing editor and host left for the Times Union. We began the search to replace him and elevated Shantel to the role in the interim. She seized the opportunity to lead the show — stepping up to serve our community with care and dedication.
As we interviewed for a new managing editor, I realized Shantel showed the most promise and potential for the leadership role. She was selected to lead the small but mighty New York Now team, only eight months after joining WMHT. Shantel has already improved communications and helped us leverage the weekly show and its newsletter. Under her leadership, we are poised for growth.
What Shantel says
Decision to work in public media: I’ve always loved journalism and connecting with communities. I knew I wanted to equip New Yorkers with the political news and public policy issues they need to know in order to be informed public citizens.
Key accomplishments: Leading state political coverage for New York Now at a time when local politics in New York is more important than ever. I’ve been able to deliver deep political analysis on the biggest news coming out of the state Capitol and impacting New Yorkers.
Inspired by: Talking directly to New Yorkers about the issues impacting their daily lives. I enjoy hearing from advocates about the causes they’re fighting for at the state Capitol and from lawmakers about their legislative priorities — and tracking the progress of those initiatives throughout the legislative session.
Advice for young public media professionals: In political journalism there is a lot of pressure to know the historical context of a wide array of issues. The reality is when you’re just starting out in your career, and working alongside professionals who have been covering a beat for several decades, it’s natural to feel intimidated. Lean into that feeling! Admit to yourself that you may not have all the answers; it’s an opportunity to push yourself to do the necessary research and align yourself with a professional mentor.
Advice for public media leaders: Listen to the opinions of younger professionals in public media. They can offer fresh and unique perspectives that can be helpful in navigating an industry that’s rooted in advancement and change.